Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a new, over-the-counter, effervescent sodium bicarbonate based oral composition on plaque and gingivitis.  The oral care product is supplied in a tablet form which when chewed mixes with the saliva to become a rinse which may be swallowed or expelled.  This product is being marketed for the consumer "on the go" as a means of reducing plaque when brushing is not possible.  (Figure 1)  This experimental rinse in chewable tablet form contains a base of sodium bicarbonate in addition to citric acid, sorbitol, binders, menthol, and mint flavorings.  

Few dental professionals have the time, nor the inclination, to conduct research on products supported by advertiser's claims; so they rely on product evaluation by unbiased agencies and on products approved by the American Dental Association (ADA).  Product evaluation has become an important part of the dental profession due to the influx of products available.  Today, the practicing dentist or dental hygienist faces an enormous task in attempting to evaluate all the dental healthcare products available and to sort out the ones that are considered cosmetic or provide transitory effects.^1,2

In addition to the over-the-counter products market, there are hundreds of products available at professional meetings and through Internet pharmacies.  It is not humanly possible to spend the time necessary to obtain sufficient information on manufacturer's claims in order to make a critical judgment about whether something is safe and effective.  The over-the-counter market is a billion-dollar industry flooded with products, which claim to have all sorts of benefits.

Aside from toothpaste and manual toothbrushes, mouthrinses represents about 23% of public spending on various oral hygiene products and over 50% of the public use a mouthrinse once or more daily.³  The effort to gain a share in the mouthrinse marketplace is tremendous.  As professionals we want to see new products being developed, but at the same time we need to make evidence-based decisions and recommendations to our clients.

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